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Mth Congress I HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES {^No"!]?!'^ 

2d Session ) I no. ciic 



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MICHAEL F. CONRY 

( Late a Representative from New York ) 



MEMORIAL ADDRESSES 



r 



DELIVERED IN THE 

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 

OF THE UNITED STATES 

SrSTY-FOURTH CONGRESS 
SECOND SESSION 



Proceedings in the House 
March 2, 1917 



Proceedings in the Senate 
March 2, 1917 



PREPARED UNDER THE DIRECTION OF 
THE JOINT COMMITTEE ON PRINTING 




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WASHINGTON 

1917 







0. •* *• 

FEB 21 .1919 



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TABLE OF CONTENTS 



\ I'age 

Proceedings in the House 5 

Memorial addresses by- — 

Mr. John J. Fitzgerald, of New York 5 

Mr. James R. Mann, of Illinois 6 

Mr. Murray Hulbert, of New York 9 

Mr. John J. Eagan, of New Jersey . _ . . . 29 

Mr. George W. Loft, of New York 30 

Mr. William S. Bennet, of Ne\v York G, 32 

Mr. Isaac Siegel, of New York 35 

Mr. Champ Clark, of Missouri 37 

Mr. Daniel J. Griffin, of New York 38 

Proceedings in the Senate 41 



[3] 




HON. MICHAEL F. CO^TRV 



DEATH OF HON. MICHAEL F. CONRY 



Proceedings in the House 

Friday, March ?, 1917. 

Mr. Fitzgerald. Mr. Speaker, it becomes my sad duty to 
announce the death of Hon. Michael F. Conry, a Repre- 
sentative from the State of New York. Because of the 
unusual condition of the public business at this time it is 
impossible to ask the House to adjourn out of respect to 
his memory. But it is proposed that recess be taken for 
a brief time as a mark of our esteem. 

Mr. CoNRY was just finishing his eighth year of service 
in this House. He had won the respect and the admira- 
tion of all the Members for his diligence, his industry, 
and for the manly qualities that characterized him. 
Taken ill but a few days ago, much to the sorrow of his 
many friends, he rapidly grew worse, and died but a 
brief while ago. 

It will not be possible, Mr. Speaker, to ask that a time 
be set aside during this session of Congress to afford 
Members an opportunity to pay tribute to his memory. 
So that Members may have an opportunitj' to pay suit- 
able tribute to his public services I ask unanimous con- 
sent that all who desire may extend remarks in the 
Record to the memory of the deceased for 15 calendar 
days. 

The Speaker. The gentleman from New York asks 
unanimous consent that all Members have the privilege of 
printing remarks on the life, character, and public serv- 
ices of Mr. CoNRY in the Record for 15 calendar days. 
Is there objection? [After a pause.] The Chair hears 
none. 

Mr. Fitzgerald. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Conry's loss is keenly 
felt by his colleagues from the State of New York and by 

[5] 



Memorial Addresses: Representative Conry 

juany other Members who were closely associated with 
him in the House. Laboring, as he did, under severe 
physical disability, everj-^one admired the courage with 
which he attended so faithfully to his duties. All, I am 
sure, entertain the deepest sympathy for his widow and 
children, who have lost so devoted and faithful a husband 
and father. Our country has lost a devoted and faithful 
servant; we have lost a loyal friend. 

Mr. Mann. Mr. Speaker, will the gentleman yield? 

Mr. Fitzgerald. Certainly. 

Mr. Mann. As it is not likely, as the gentleman has 
stated, that there will be any opportunity for Members, 
except by printing in the Record, to express their opinion 
respecting Mr. Conry and his public services, I desire to 
say now that Mr. Conry had earned and had received the 
respect and all affectionate regard of all the Repub- 
licans in the House. Of course it goes without saying that 
he had the same in reference to the Democratic Members 
of the House. 

I think there were few men in the House for whom the 
Members entertained a higher personal regard than for 
this man, who, overcoming physical disabilities, always 
had a smiling way about him which endeared him to 
everybody who met him. 

Mr. Bennet. Mr. Speaker, will my colleague yield to me 
for just a sentence? 

Mr. Fitzgerald. Yes. 

Mr. Bennet. What has been said by my colleague [Mr. 
Fitzgerald] and by the gentleman from Illinois [Mr. 
Mann] expresses so fittinglj' the feelings on both sides of 
the aisle that I have no desire or intention of attempting 
to add anything to it, except to say that it voices the feel- 
ings of the entire delegation from the Slate and county 
from which our colleague came. 



[6] 



Proceedings in the House 



Mr. Fitzgerald. Mr. Speaker, I offer the following reso- 
lutions. 

The Speaker. The Clerk will report the resolutions. 
The Clerk read as follows : 

Resolved, That the House has heard with profound sorrow of 
the death of the Hon. Michael F. Conry, a Representative from 
the State of New York. 

Resolved, That a committee of Members of the House, with such 
Members of the Senate as may be joined, be appointed to attend 
the funeral. 

Resolved, That the Sergeant at Arms of the House he authorized 
and directed to take such steps as may be necessary for carrying 
out the provisions of these resolutions, and that the necessary 
expenses in connection therewith be paid out of the contingent 
fund of the House. 

Resolved, That the Clerk communicate these resolutions to the 
Senate and transmit a copy thereof to the family of the deceased. 

Mr. Fitzgerald. Mr. Speaker, 1 ask for a vote on the 
resolutions. 

The Speaker. The question is on agreeing to the resolu- 
tions. 

The resolutions were unanimously agreed to. 

The Speaker. The Clerk will report the next resolution. 

The Clerk read as follows : 

Resolved, That as a further mark of respect, this House do now 
stand in recess until 8 o'clock p. m. 

The Speaker. The question is on agreeing to the resolu- 
tion. 

The resolution was unanimously agreed to; accordingly 
(at 7 o'clock and 7 minutes p. ni.) the House stood in 
recess until 8 o'clock p. m. 

The House reassembled at 8 o'clock p. m., on the expi- 
ration of the recess. 

The Speaker. The Chair announces the following com- 
mittee to attend the funeral of the late Representative 
Conry. 

[7] 



Memorial Addrkssks : Representative Conry 

The Clerk read as follows : 

Mr. Fitzgerald, Mr. Caldwell, Mr. Flynn, Mr. Dale of New York, 
Mr. Maher, Mr. Griffin, Mr. Riordan, Mr. Loft, Mr. Farley, Mr. 
Dooling, Mr. Carew, Mr. Patten, Mr. Hulbert, Mr. Bruckner, Mr. 
Oglesby, Mr. Smith of New York, Mr. Driscoll, Mr. Gallivan, Mr. 
Tague, Mr. Gallagher, Mr. Taggart, Mr. O'Shaunessy, Mr. London, 
Mr. Hicks, Mr. Rowe, Mr. Swift, Mr. Haskell, Mr. Chandler of 
New York, Mr. Siegel, Mr. Bennet, Mr. Fairchild, Mr. Dunn, Mr. 
Treadway, Mr. Danforth, Mr. Mott, Mr. Park, Mr. Piatt, Mr. San- 
ford, and Mr. Husted. 

Saturd.w, March 3, 1917. 

Mr. KiTCHiN. Mr. Speaker, by direction of the Commit- 
tee on Waj's and Means I present the following resolution. 

The Speaker. The Clerk will report the resolution. 

The Clerk read as follows : 

House resolution 551 

Whereas death has again invaded our ranks and removed from the 

scene of his earthlj' activities our friend and colleague, the Hon. 

Michael F. Conry, of the State of New York: 

Resolved, That in his death we experience a keen sense of 
personal loss. As a Member of tlie House for four terms, and 
many years a member of this committee, he discharged at all 
times with distinguished ability and patriotism the duties devolv- 
ing upon him; . 

Resolved, That in his death the House and the committee have 
lost a wise, diligent, patriotic Member and the district he repre- 
sented a citizen and a public servant devoted at all times to high 
ideals and prompted by those lofty purposes and motives which 
make for the very best type of American citizenship; 

Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions be spread upon a 
page of the record of this committee to be set apart for that 
purpose, and that a copy of the same be presented to the House 
by the chairman of this committee for printing in the Congres- 
sional Record; and 

Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions appropriately en- 
grossed be transmitted by the clerk of this committee to the family 
of the deceased. 

The Speaker. Without objection, these resolutions will 
be spread upon the record. 

[8] 



MEMORIAL ADDRESSES 



Address of Mr. Hulbjert, of New York 

Mr. Speaker: Michael Francis Conry has gone to his 
last reward. No more shall we hear his sweet voice along 
the corridors and through the tunnel leading from the 
House Office Building to the Capitol humming the refrain 
of "Genevieve," "Mother Machree," "The End of a Perfect 
Day," or a song composed by himself upon the trip made 
by a congressional party to Honolulu last summer — all his 
favorites, with which he always sought to ease each be- 
labored step, never knowing, as he expressed it, what it 
was to be without pain, as he attempted to hurry along in 
the performance of his duty, which he discharged with 
unerring fidelity to the trust reposed in him by an ad- 
miring constituency. 

Born at Shenandoah, Pa., April 2, 1870, of poor but 
respected parents, when but a boy working in the coal 
mines Conry met with an unfortunate accident, in which 
his ankles were crushed, rendering him a cripple for life, 
thus preventing him from pursuing further that occupa- 
tion. But it gave him the unlooked-for and unexpected 
opportunity of attending and being educated in the public 
schools of his native town, following which he taught 
school for seven years, and then entered and worked his 
way through the University of Michigan. Graduating 
from that institution in 1896, he received the degree of 
bachelor of laws, and began the practice of law at Scran- 
ton, Pa. 

Mr. Conry was too modest and unassuming to take more 
than a conscientious pride in his own success, yet too 
proud to complain of any misfortune. 

[9] 



Memorial Addresses: Representative Conry 

Probably few of his colleagues ever knew he had once 
been nominated as the Democratic candidate for, and, 
upon the face of the first returns, elected to Congi-ess 
from the State of Pennsj'lvania, but the certificate was 
subsequently issued to his opponent. 

Thereafter Mr. Conry moved to and took up the practice 
of law in New York City, where he soon attracted atten- 
tion as an orator of marked abilitv. 

It was but natural that one of his humble origin, always 
considerate of the welfare of the toilers, should have allied 
himself with the Democracy of Tammany Hall, in which 
he became an ardent and enthusiastic colaborer and at- 
tained deserved popularity'. 

After serving for two years as an assistant corporation 
counsel of the city of New York he was elected to the 
Sixty-first, Sixty-second, Sixty-third, Sixty-fourth, and 
Sixty-fifth Congresses, and at the time of his death was a 
member of the Committee on Ways and Means. 

]Mr. Conry was a man of great intellect and a diligent 
student; he possessed the talent to analyze an intricate 
problem until he had mastered its everj' detail, and acted 
only after the fullest deliberation; and while not so active 
upon the floor of the House as many of his colleagues, due 
to his physical infirmities, his counsel and advice Avere 
eagerly sought, and he gave a great deal of attention and 
deep thought to pending legislation, and his influence was 
a potent factor in its consideration. Aside from his atten- 
tion to tariff and revenue matters which were originated 
in the committee of which he was a member he found 
time to organize and practically lead the successful oppo- 
sition on the Democratic side to the Clarke amendment to 
the Philippine bill, upon the termination of which, after 
a continuous session of 13 hours, on May 1, 1916, he sufr 
fered a physical collapse which compelled him to take to 
his bed for several weeks, and which he prophesied " was 

[10] 



Address of Mr. Hulbert, of New York 



the beginning of the end." He also delivered a carefully 
considered and well-prepared speech in support of the 
retention of the pneumatic postal tubes in New York, 
which is but one evidence of his readiness and eagerness 
to promote or protect the interests of the citj' of New 
York, which he in part and so ably represented, whenever 
it became an issue. 

During my brief service in Congress we had become 
warm personal friends, inseparable companions, and I 
never knew a more considerate, faithful, and devoted 
friend. 

And friendship is the rarest and sweetest flower that 
grows in the garden of life; its soil is the human heart; 
it is planted by honest thought, nurtured by tears of sym- 
pathy, and kept alive by the breath of good wishes. Any- 
one who possessed the friendship of Congressman Conry, 
and they were legion, might have applied the acid tests 
of a chattering tongue, a wind of adversity, a bit of good 
fortune, or a breath of slander, only to find that it was 
untarnished by any or all. It was pure gold. 

My heart goes out to his wife and three little daughters, 
who kave lost a devoted husband and loving father, while 
not only the people of the fifteenth congressional district 
but the city. State, and Nation have lost a statesman in 
the hour of our country's peril. 

Though I was one of the last to leave his bedside when 
his spirit had taken its final departure, I shall never be 
able to realize that he is other than " absent," for such a 
noble character as his but echoes: 

There is no death. 

The stars go down to rise upon a fairer shore 
And bright in heaven's jeweled crown 
They shine forevermore. 

And ever near us tho' unseen 
The dear immortal spirits tread, 
For all the boundless universe is life. 
There are no dead. 

[11] 



Memorial Addresses: Representative Conry 

I include the following newspaper articles on my late 
colleague, Michael F. Conry : 

[From the Washington Post, Saturday, Mar. 3, 1917.] 

Death of M. F. Conry — House Halts Session for Hour When 
News is Received — At Work Until Last Week — Succumbs at 
Providence Hospital from Heart and Kidney Trouble — De- 
mise May Mean Republican Organization of Next House — Was 
Tammany Hall M\n 

The House stopped work for an hour yesterday when announce- 
ment was made of the death of Representative Michael F. Conry, 
from the fifteenth district of New York. After an illness of six 
weeks of kidney and heart trouble Mr. Cokry died at Providence 
Hospital here shortly before 5 o'clock in the afternoon. The body 
will be taken to New York to-day, and funeral services will be 
held in that city next Tuesday. 

Mr. Conry, prominent in the afTairs of this Congress, had been 
elected to succeed himself in the next House. He was a Democrat, 
and the vacancy created by his death may result in an advantage 
that will give the Republican side the necessary single vote 
required to organize the House and elect a Speaker. 

Mr. CoNRY was rounding out his fourth consecutive term in the 
House. He was 47 years old. He was a native of Shenandoah, 
Pa., and in his youth, following the occupation of a miner, sus- 
tained an injury that lamed him for life. He taught school for 
seven years and afterwards studied law in the Michigan Univer- 
sity. He is survived by a widow and three daughters. 

In the House Mr. Conry was regarded as the leader of the New 
York delegation. He was known as the closest friend of Charles 
F. Murphy, chief of Tammany Hall. He was a member of the 
Ways and Means Committee, and until last week, though ill, 
worked hard with his colleagues in connection with the framing 
of the revenue bill and other legislation. 

[From the Washington Evening Star, Saturday, Mar. 3, 1917.] 

Representative Conry Dies at Hospital Here — New York Mem- 
ber III Only a Week — Funeral Services Tuesday — House 
Pays Its Respect 

Representative Michael F. Conry, of New York City, died at 
Providence Hospital yesterday afternoon after an illness of a 

[12] 



Address of Mr. Hulbert, of New York 

week. Funeral services will be held in New York City Tuesday. 
Mr. CoNRY had been aware of an approaching illness for several 
weeks, but had continued at his work up until the time it was 
necessary for him to go to the hospital a week ago. The physi- 
cians found he had a combination of heart and kidney trouble. 

His death was announced to the House late yesterday afternoon 
by Representative Fitzgerald, of New York City. As the announce- 
ment came at a time when the public business of Congress was in 
a congested condition, all the House could do in respect to the 
late Member's memory was to recess from 7 to 8 o'clock. Repre- 
sentative Mann and Representative Rennet made brief speeches, 
in addition to Representative Fitzgerald's remarks, telling of their 
admiration for Representative Conry's many fine qualities. 

LOOKED UPON AS LEADER 

The New York Member was especially valuable to the Ways and 
Means Committee and was looked upon as a leader in the New 
York City delegation in the House. 

As it was knov.fn he was one of the closest friends to Charles F. 
Murphy, the head of the Tammany organization, Representative 
Conry's political advice was considered valuable. His work in 
Congress was of the quiet kind, as he rarely made a speech. How- 
ever, he exercised great influence, and his death will make a great 
gap in the power of the Democratic organization in the House. 

He had been reelected to the next House, which would have 
made his fifth consecutive term. He was 47 years old, born in 
Shenandoah, Pa., in 1870. His first work was in a coal mine; 
later he became a teacher, and the'n attended the University of 
Michigan, graduating in 1896 with a degree of bachelor of laws. 
His practice in New York City brought him into prominence, and 
he became assistant corporation counsel of that city, a post he 
held for two years. He was elected to the House first for the 
Sixty-first Congress and for the succeeding Congresses with large 
majorities. A wife and three children survive him. 

[From the Washington Herald, Saturday, Mar. 3, 1917.] 

Representative Conry Succximbs to Malady — " Tammany Hall " 
Congressman Dies at Providence Hospital 

Michael F. Conry, Democratic Representative of the fifteenth 
New York district in the House, died at Providence Hospital here 
last night of kidney trouble. 

[13] 



Memorial Addresses: Representative Conry 

He had been ill only a few days, although his health had been 
bad for several years. He was 47 years old, and is survived by a 
wife and three children. 

Representative Conry was one of the leaders of the so-called 
Tammany group of House Democrats. He had been in Congress 
for eight years, and had been reelected to the Sixty-fifth Congress. 
His death materially lessens the Democratic chances to control 
the next House. 

The House, despite the congestion of legislative business and 
the short time remaining for work, took an hour's adjournment 
last night out of respect to the memory of Representative Conry. 

Representatives Fitzgerald, of New York; Mann, of Illinois; and 
Bennet, of New York, paid glowing tributes to the dead Member. 
The body will go to New York to-day, and a congressional com- 
mittee will attend the funeral, to be held Tuesday. 

[From the Washington Times, Saturday, Mar. 3, 1917.] 

If House Does Sing, 'twill Be a Tsiuute — " Mike " Conry, 
Genial, Sweet-Voiced Congressman, Dies as Session Ends — 
Led in " Good-by " Songs — Members Recess in Midst of Tasks 
When News of Death is Told 

[By Theodore Tiller.] 

Probably there'll be a song or two in the House of Representa- 
tives late to-night or in the early morning hours as this session 
passes into history. In the lower body there is generally a let- 
down of business just before the gavel falls, and, somehow, the 
fellows begin to hum an old-fashioned tune, the chorus swells, 
and soon half the membership is singing. 

It is the mellowing influence of the time for good-bys, the relief 
from overwork, an outcropping of the sentimental among men 
who are soon to break pleasant associations, and who at heart are 
still just boys. 

But if they sing to-night there will be a missing voice — and that 
is why this story is written. " JIike " Conry — genial, whole- 
souled, lovable " Mike " Conry — is dead, or has " crossed over," 
as Uncle Joe Cannon, who dislikes the word " death," would say 
if he were writing a story about the passing of a colleague. 



[14] 



Address of Mr. Hulbert, of New^ York 



VOICE CLEAR, HEART TENDER 

In former years Congressman Conry has been there to sing as 
the last hours of a Congress slipped by. He had a voice as clear 
as a bell and a heart as tender as a child's. He was lame — was 
" Mike " Conry — but he'd limp toward the well of the House and 
soon you'd hear him above the rest as his tenor would blend in 
harmony with other Members who had good voices and sang with 
feeling under the thrill of good-by scenes. 

"Auld Lang Syne," "Tenting To-night," "Old Black Joe," 
" Suwanee River " — the old favorites, with sometimes a verse of 
" Home, Sweet Home " — were among the songs they sang, while 
Conry's voice keyed true to every note. 

Or perhaps they'd sing an Irish ballad — something that carried 
one back to the memories of green hills and clear lakes, to blue- 
eyed lassies, to cottages where old-fashioned mothers crooned the 
lullabies that have always put little children to sleep, and to a 
little isle whose national heart has been as big as the great 
out-of-doors. 

" MIKE " conry stirred 

And then, too, " Mike " Conry's voice was heard above the rest, 
but it had a sort of quaver in it and his eyes had that far-away 
look that comes when one's feelings are deeply stirred. 

Maybe the Members of the House will not get a chance to sing 
at all before the adjournment comes sine die. But if Conry were 
here he'd want them to, and now he is dead and the body is on 
the way to his New York home " Mike " Conry would not have 
them refrain from song because of that. 

This story might have been told in a few words — but the writer 
felt it was worth a bit more than that. In these final hours of an 
epochal session of the National Legislature it can not be amiss to 
turn a moment from practical things and record that sentiment 
still exists, that there is not a Member of the House who doesn't 
miss Michael Conry to-day, and that if the songs of yestciday are 
sung again some of his colleagues will seem to hear once more the 
lead of Conry, of New York. 

HOUSE SHOWS spirit 

Persons who have never seen the end of a session in the House 
of Representatives probably can not appreciate what adjournment 
means to the Members of the lower body. In the Senate there is 

9243S"'— 17 2 [15] 



Memorial AniiRESSKs: Rkpresentative Conry 

always dignity, real or assumed. The farewells are grave, matter 
of fact, although doubtless sincere. In the House the scenes are 
entirely different. 

House Members somehow are closer in their friendships. The 
complexion of the lower Chamber is constantly changing. Men 
come and go every two years. The leader of to-day may be the 
vanquished of to-morrow. But during his term he has formed 
friendships that are as true as steel and associations that are hard 
to break. 

Final adjournment in the House is much like the graduation day 
in a high school or a college. The young fellows assemble in 
class for the last time. Each one knows that never will they all 
meet together again. New faces are sure to appear and old faces 
are certain to be missed. It is a breaking of the ties that bind. 

So with the House of Representatives, with its membership that 
comes " close from the soul of a great people." The end of busi- 
ness comes, the tension is relaxed. Members are saying good-by — 
perhaps for a day, perhaps forever; and then away over in a 
corner a song is begun, a hush falls over the crowded galleries, 
the membership joins in, the Speaker withholds the gavel, there 
is no word of reproof, and moisture dims the eyes of those who 
appreciate the note of pathos in it all. 

Thus they have sung in the past and thus they will sing in the 
future. But " Mike " Conry's voice will never lead them again. 

XEWS OF DEATH COMES 

" Mike " Conry, beloved of every Member of the House, died 
last night at Providence Hospital. The end came quickly, unex- 
pectedly. 

The House stood in recess for one hour when the death was 
announced by Congressman Fitzgerald, dean of the New York 
delegation. The crush of legislation prevented a longer recess, 
but the tribute of the House was none the less sincere. Tears 
stood in the eyes of Mr. Fitzgerald as he told his colleagues that 
Michael Conry had answered the final roll call. 

Should they sing as the sands of the Sixty-fourth Congress run 
low, there'll be a tribute to Conry in that, and there'll be proof 
once more of the fact that the makers of national law have in them 
the touch of sentiment that makes us all alike. 



[16] 



Address of Mr. Hulbert, of New York 

[From the New York Herald, Saturday, Mar. 3, 1917.] 

Representative Conry Dies — New York Democratic Member 
Kept Up Congress Duties to the Last 

Washington, D. C, Friday. 

Representative Michael F. Conry, a Democrat, of New York 
City, died here to-day from kidney and heart trouble, from which 
he had been suffering acutely for about a week in Providence 
Hospital. 

Mr. Conry' was 47 years old. He was born at Shenandoah, Pa., 
April 2, 1870. He studied law in the University of Michigan and 
was graduated in 1896. He was married and had three children. 
Mr. Conry served two years as assistant corporation counsel of 
New York and had just been reelected to his fifth consecutive 
term in the House of Representatives. 

Mr. Conry' was regarded as the real Democratic leader of the 
New York delegation. He was the only New York member of the 
Ways and Means Committee. It is said that he was the closest 
friend of Charles F. Murphy, of Tammany Hall. He has been a 
conspicous figure in the House of Representatives ever since he 
began his service in the Sixty-first Congress. 

During the present session, when the fight over the retention of 
the pneumatic-tube service in New York City reached its climax, 
Mr. Conry was one of the foremost advocates of retention of the 
tubes. Mr. Conry, although ill, remained at his post in the fore- 
front of the struggle which finally resulted to-day in the retention 
of the tubes, the Senate having agreed to the conference report, 
which now sends the bill to the President for his signature. 

The death of Mr. Conry' was announced in the House about 7 
o'clock. Because of the unusual pressure of legislation a final 
adjournment was not taken, but on motion of Representative Fitz- 
gerald, of New York, the House, out of respect, took a recess. 

The body will be taken to New York and the funeral will be 
held Tuesday, March 6. 

[From the New York Journal of Commerce, Saturday, Mar. 3, 1917.] 

Congressman Conry Dead — New York City Representative 
Passes Away in Washington 

Washington, March 2. 
Representative Michael F. Conry, of New York City, a Demo- 
cratic Member ©f Congress for four terms and reelected for a fifth, 

[17] 



Memorial Addresses: Representative Conry 

died at a hospital here late to-day after a long illness from kidney 
trouble. He was 47 years old. In spite of his failing health he 
h<Td been at the Capitol (|uite regularly until last week, and as a 
member of the Ways and Means Committee had worked hard in 
connection with framing the revenue bill and other legislation. 

A native of Shenandoah, Pa., Mr. Conrv in his youth was a 
miner, and in following that trade sustained an injury that lamed 
him for life. He leaves a widow and three daughters. 

[From the Brooklyn (N. Y.) Times, Saturday, Mar. 3, 1917.] 

Congressman Michael Conrv Dies — Represent.\tive from Man- 
hattan FOR Four Terms — House Adjourns 

Representative Michael F. Conry, of New York City, a Demo- 
cratic Member of Congress for four terms, died yesterday in 
Providence Hospital, Washington, of heart and kidney trouble. 
He was New York's Democratic member of the Ways and Means 
Committee. The House adjourned for an hour yesterday in 
respect to Congressman Conry's memory. Because of the im- 
mense legislative pressure the House did not follow its usual 
custom of adjourning early. 

Mr. Conry was born in Shenandoah, Pa., April 2, 1870. He 
taught school, was a newspaper reporter, a public accountant, 
and then studied law in the University of Michigan, graduating in 
1896. He came to New York and formed a law partnership with 
Edward D. Dowling, with offices at 280 Broadway. For two years 
he served as assistant corporation counsel, and was nominated for 
Congress for the first time in 1908. 

Representative Conry's death may have an important effect on 
the political situation in the House next session. The Democrats 
and Republicans elected 215 Members each, with 5 independents. 
Next session the Democrats will have but 214 votes. 

[From the New York American, Saturday, Mar. 3, 1917.] 

Conry Dies; G. O. P. Grip on House Tighter — Democrats Now 
Lack Four Votes Necessary for Majority Control in Speaker- 
ship Fight — Urge Whitman to Hurry Special Election — 
Republicans Claim Enough Votes to Elect Mann 

Washington, March 2. 
Congressman Michael F. Conry, of the fifteenth New York dis- 
trict, died after a lingering illness at Providence Hospital, this 
city. 

[18] 



Address of Mr. Hulbert, of New York 

The news of Mr. Conry's death was communicated to the House 
by Representative Fitzgerald, of New York, who spoke feelingly 
of the late Congressman's life and services. Minority Leader 
Mann and Representative Bennet, also of New York, joined in a 
tribute to the departed Member. A recess of the House was taken 
as a mark of respect. 

Mr. Conry's death makes the third to occur among the member- 
ship of the present session. Samuel J. Tribble, of Georgia, and 
David F. Finley, of South Carolina, died earlier in the session. 

SERVED FOUR TERMS 

Mrs. Conry and one of her daughters have been in Washington 
for about two weeks. The other two children — Katherine, 9, and 
Clair, 7 — have been with the family of J. V. Kiely, at No. 116 East 
Fifty-fourth Street. They knew that their father had been ill 
since Wednesday, but were not told of his death. 

Michael F. Conry was born in Shenandoah, Pa., April 2, 1870. 
He was educated in the public schools of his native town, and 
afterwards taught school for seven years, He was graduated in 
1896 from the University of Michigan, receiving the degree of 
LL. B. He entered the legal profession, and was for a while an 
assistant corporation counsel of New York. 

He was elected to the Sixty-first, Sixty-second, Sixty-third, and 
Sixty-fourth Congresses. 

The body will be taken to New York to-morrow by Mrs. Conry, 
and the "funeral will take place there Tuesday morning. Speaker 
Clark named a committee, including the New York delegation in 
the House, to attend the services. 

[From the New York Times, Saturday, Mar. 3, 1917.] 

Congressman Conry, of New York, Dies — Democratic Memher 
FROM THE Fifteenth District a Victim of Bright's Disease — 
Alters Division in House — Two Parties Were Equally Di- 
vided in Next Congress — Special Election Necessary 

Washington, March 2, 1917. 

Representative Michael F. Conry, of the fifteenth district of 

New York, died here this afternoon at 5.30 o'clock at Providence 

Hospital. At 7 o'clock the House was oflicially informed of the 

death of the New York Member, and a recess of one hour was 



[19] 



MeMOUI.\L Al>i)HKSSES: liKPRESENTATIVE CoNH'* 

lakcn in respect to his meiuory. The congestion of legislation so 
near the end of the session prevented an adjournment of the 
House. 

Aside from the shock felt in the House over the sudden death 
of Mr. CoNRY, there was concern to-night over the political effect 
of a vacancy in the House membership because of the possibility 
of an extra session of the Sixty-fifth Congress. The Democrats 
and Republicans of the next House are evenly divided, with five 
independents holding the balance of power. The death of a 
Member on cither side gives an advantage to the other should an 
extra session become necessary. 

The Republican governor of New York has authority to call a 
special election to fill Mr. Conrv's seat, but Members here can not 
predict when such an election will be held. 

Mr. CoNRY had not been in the best of health for several weeks, 
but was able to be in the House last Monday. He was taken to 
the hospital that day and rapidly grew worse until he became un- 
conscious to-day. Bright's disease is said to have been the cause 
of his death. Word came to Mr. Conry's colleagues this after- 
noon that as a last resort physicians were attempting to draw the 
poison from Mr. Conry's system by the " sweating process." 

The body of Representative Conry will be taken to New York 
to-morrow, but the funeral will not be held until next Tuesday. 
The congressional committee which will be named to attend the 
funeral will go to New York on Monday evening. 

Representatives Hulbert and Driscoll, of New York, and Coady, 
of Maryland, were at the bedside of Representative Conry when 
he died. Mrs. Conry and one daughter were also present. Mr. 
Conry leaves two other daughters, who are attending school in 
New York. 

Tears were in the eyes of Representative John J. Fitzgerald, 
dean of the New York delegation, as he announced Mr. Conry's 
death to the House. " Owing to the unusual condition of the 
public business," said Mr. Fitzgerald, " it would be impossible to 
hold memorial services before the end of the session." 

" In the circumstances," said Mr. Fitzgerald, " it is impossible 
for the House to adjourn, but in respect to the memory of Mr. 
Conry the House will stand in recess. Mr. Conry was finishing 
his eighth year as a Member of this body. He had won the 
respect and admiration of all his collet^giies because of his up- 



[20] 



Address of Mr. Hulbert, of New York 

Tightness, his industry, and his manly qualities. The loss of 
Mr. CoNRY will be keenly felt by all the Members from the State 
of New York and all Members of this House. 

" Laboring as he was under severe physical affliction, everyone 
admired the courage and fidelity with which Michael Conry 
attended to his duties, and everyone, I am sure, feels the deepest 
sympathy for his wife and children." 

Representative James R. Mann, the Republican floor leader, 
said: 

" Mr. CoNRY earned and received the respect and atfectionate 
regard of all the Republicans of the House as well as the Demo- 
crats. There have been few men in the House for whom Members 
entertained so high a personal regard as for this man. Despite 
his physical disabilities he always had a smile and a way about 
bim that endeared him to everybody." 

Representative William S. Bennet, a New York Republican, 
said: 

" What has just been said expresses fittingly the feeling on both 
sides of the House regarding Mr. Gonry. I could add nothing 
but to say it voices the feeling of the entire New York delegation 
and the House as well." 

[From the New York Sun, Saturday, Mar. 3, 1917.] 

Representative M. F. Conry Dies; House Lead to G. 0. P. — New 

York City Congressman Succumbs to He.art and Kidney 

Diseases 

Washington, March 2. 

Representative Michael F. Conry, of New York City, a Demo- 
cratic Member of Congress for four terms and elected for a fifth, 
died at the Providence Hospital here this afternoon of a compli- 
cation of heart and kidney diseases. 

His death may have an important effect on the political com- 
plexion of the House in the next session. The Democrats and 
Republicans elected 215 Members each, and there are five inde- 
pendents. If an extra session is called, the Democrats would now 
be represented by only 214 votes, as it is not likely that Mr. 
Conry's successor will be elected until the November election. 
Even if a special election were arranged, it could not be held for 
30 days. 



[21] 



Memorial Addresses : Representative Conry 

Mr. Conry represented the fifteenth New York district, which is 
strongly Democratic; so his successor will almost surely be a 
Democrat, but until his successor is elected the Republicans will 
have one vote more than the Democrats. 

Mr. Conry carried on to the last one of the most courageous 
lights against ill health and death itself that the House has seen 
in years. He was the real leader of the New York Democratic 
delegation, and was New York's Democratic member of the Ways 
and Means Committee. 

He had been in ill health for several years, but had refused to 
permit this to interfere with his important legislative duties. 
This session he has insisted upon attending every meeting of the 
House when legislation of importance to his State or party was 
under consideration. He was there not only to give his vote 
but to fight in behalf of the measures he advocated. He led the 
fight for pneumatic postal tubes for big cities when he should 
have been in bed. The result was a series of physical collapses 
from the start of the session. He finally collapsed last Friday 
after a tremendously active day for a man in his condition. 

Because of the immense legislative pressure the House did not 
follow its custom of adjourning early in respect to his memory, 
but a recess was taken from 7.10 until 8 o'clock this evening. 

The body will be sent to New York to-morrow and burial will 
be on Tuesday. Mr. Conrv leaves a widow and three daughters. 

Mr. Conry was born in Shenandoah, Pa., April 2, 1870, and was 
educated in the public schools there. He taught school, was a 
newspaper reporter, a public accountant, and then went to the 
University of Michigan to study law. He was graduated in 1896. 

He returned to New York and formed a law partnership with 
Edward D. Dowling, with offices at 280 Broadway. He was assist- 
ant corporation counsel for two years and in 1908 was nominated 
for Congress for the first time. He was elected then and at each 
succeeding election. 

[From the New York World, Saturday, Mar. 3, 1917.] 

New York Congressman Dead in Capital — M. F. Conry Suc- 
cumbs TO Kidney Trouble — May Affect Democratic Balance 
IN THE Next House 

Washington, March 2. 
Representative Michael F. Conry, of New York City, a Demo- 
cratic Member of Congress for four terms and reelected for a 

[22] 



Address of Mr. Hulbert, of New York 

fifth, died at a hospital here late to-day, after a long illness from 
kidney trouble. He was 47 years old. 

In spite of his failing health, he had been at the Capitol regu- 
larly until last week, and, as a member of the Ways and Means 
Committee, had worked hard in connection with framing the 
revenue bill and other legislation. 

A native of Shenandoah, Pa., Mr. Conry in his youth was a 
miner. In following that trade he received an injury that lamed 
him for life. He is survived by a widow and three daughters. 

The death of one of the Democratic Members elect may have an 
important effect on the political complexion of the House in the 
Sixty-fifth Congress. The Democrats and Republicans elected 
215 Members each, and there are 5 independents, on whom 
depends which party shall organize the next House. 

If an extra session were called, the Democrats probably would 
go into the organization fight only 214 strong. 

Members of the New York delegation believe that a successor to 
Representative Conry will not be elected until November. Elec- 
tion of a Democrat then would restore the even balance before 
the regular December session. Representative Conry, active in 
Tammany councils, was from a safely Democratic district, the 
fifteenth. 

The body will be taken to New York to-morrow by Mrs. Conry, 
and the funeral will take place there Tuesday morning. Speaker 
Clark named a committee, including the New York delegation in 
the House, to attend the services. 

The House this evening, in Committee of the Whole, voted for 
the widow of Representative Conry -$7,500. 

[From the New York Tribune, Saturday, Mar. 3, 1917.] 

Congressman Conry Dies at Washington After Long Illness — 
Death May Have Important Effect on Sixty-Fifth Congress 

Washington, March 2. 
Representative Michael F. Conry, of New York City, a Demo- 
cratic Member of Congress for four terms and reelected for a 
fifth, died at a hospital here late to-day, after a long illness from 
kidney trouble. He was 47 years old. In spite of his failing 
health, he had been at the Capitol regularly until last week, and, 
as a member of the Ways and Means Committee, had worked hard 
in connection with framing the revenue bill and other legislation. 



[23] 



Memorial Aodhksses : Representative Conrv 

A native of Shenandoah, Pa., Mr. Conry in his youlli was a 
miner, and in following that trade sustained an injury that lamed 
him for life. He is survived by a widow and three daughters. 

The death of one of the Democratic Members elect may have an 
important effect upon the political complexion of the House in 
the Sixty-fifth Congress. The Democrats and Republicans elected 
215 Members each, and there are 5 independents, upon whom 
depends which party shall organize the next House. 

If an extra session were called, the Democrats probably would 
go into the organization fight only 214 strong. 

The body will be taken to New York to-morrow by Mrs. Conry, 
and the funeral will take place there Tuesday morning. Speaker 
Clark named a committee, including the New York delegation in 
the House, to attend the services. 

[From the New York American, Thursday, Mar. 8, 1917.] 

Congressmen and 400 Mail Carriers at Conry Fc'ner.\l — F.\ther 
Alexis Eulogizes Popul.^r Representative, Calling Him a 
Martyr to Duty 

Four hundred letter carriers, whose cause was long championed 
by Congressman Michael F. Conry, hurried through their morn- 
ing deliveries yesterday to take a little time to attend his funeral. 
They were among the most sincere mourners of the Congressman 
who often aided them. 

Bishop Patrick J. Hayes, assisted by other priests, celebrated a 
solemn high mass of requiem in St. Stephen's Church, in East 
Twenty-eighth Street. A large delegation of Members of the 
House, headed by Speaker Champ Clark and two Members of the 
Senate, attended. 

Fellow Representatives present were Griffin, Mahcr, Riordan, 
Loft, Farley, Dooling, Patten, Carcw, Chandler, Siegel, Hulbert, 
Bruckner, Rennet, Oglesby, Piatt, Driscoll, Smith, London, and 
Caldwell, of New York; O'Shaunessy, of Rhode Island; Eagan, 
Scully, and Hamill, of New .Jersey; Morin, Liebel, and Farr, of 
Pennsylvania; Gallivan and Treadway, of Massachusetts; Taggart, 
of Kansas; Gallagher, of Illinois; Small, of North Carolina; and 
Lonergan, of Connecticut. 

Others from Washington were United States Senators Robinson, 
of Arkansas, and Shafroth, of Colorado; Robert Gordon, Sergeant 



[24] 



Address of Mr. Hulbert, of New York 

at Arms of the House; P. J. Haltigan, reading clerk of the House, 
and most of the Tammany district leaders. 

Father Alexis eulogized Mr. Conry as a martyr to duty. The 
burial was in Calvary Cemetery. 

The pallbearers, all personal friends, were E. D. Bowling, 
Charles Goldstein, P. J. Haltigan, Andrew J. Sheridan, M. J. Cruise, 
and Judge J. L. Walsh, of the city court. 

The Elks, of whom the Congressman was a member, held 
services Tuesday night. 

[From the New York Tribune, Thursday, Mar. 8, 1917.] 

Michael F. Conry Buried — Capitol Deleg.\tion at Funeral of 

Representative 

Solemn high requiem mass was held in St. Stephen's Church 
yesterday morning for Representative Michael F. Conry, who 
died in Washington last Friday. Bishop Patrick J. Hayes was the 
celebrant. Several Senators and a delegation from the House, 
headed by Speaker Champ Clark, attended. 

The church was draped in mourning. The center w^as reserved 
for the Washington delegation. There were many city officials 
present. Intimate friends of Mr. Conry acted as pallbearers. 
They were E. D. Bowling, Charles Goldstein, P. J. Haltigan, 
Andrew J. Sheridan, M. J. Cruise, and Justice J. L. Walsh, of the 
city court. 

Others present were United States Senators Robinson, of Arkan- 
sas, and Shafroth, of Colorado; Representatives Fitzgerald, Griffin, 
Maher, Flynn, Riordan, Loft, Farley, Booling, Patten, Carew, 
Chandler, Siegel, Hulbert, Bruckner, Bennet, Oglesby, Piatt, Bris- 
coll, Smith, London, and Caldwell, of New York; O'Shaunessy, of 
Rhode Island; Eagan, Scully, and Hamill, of New Jersey; Morin, 
Liebel, and Farr, of Pennsylvania; Gallivan and Treadway, of 
Massachusetts; Taggart, of Kansas; Gallagher, of Illinois; Small, 
of North Carolina; Lonergan, of Connecticut. 

Four hundred letter carriers also attended. In Congress Mr. 
Conry had been a champion of the postmen. Interment was in 
Calvary Cemetery. 



[25] 



Memorial Adokesses: Rephesentative Conry 

[From the Brooklyn (N. Y.) Eagle, Wednesday, Mar. 7, 1917.] 

Last TRibixE to Conry— Champ Clark Among Those at Repre- 
sentative's Funeral 

Before a large assemblage, including many public men, Bishop 
Patrick J. Hayes, assisted by a number of priests, celebrated a 
solemn high mass of requiem to-day in memory of the late Repre- 
sentative Michael F. Conry, who died in Washington last Friday. 
The services were held in St. Stephen's Church, on East Twenty- 
eighth Street, Manhattan, and interment was in Calvary Cemetery. 

A delegation from the House of Representatives, several United 
States Senators, and local oflicials who had known the deceased 
Congressman all his life were present. 

Personal friends acted as pallbearers. They were E. D. Dow- 
ling, Charles Goldstein, P. J. Haltigan, Andrew J. Sheridan, M. J. 
Cruise, and Justice J. L. Walsh, of the city court. 

Speaker Champ Clark attended. The Congressmen who accom- 
panied him as members of the official delegation included Fitz- 
gerald, Griffin, Maher, Flynn, Riordan, Loft, Farley, Dooling, 
Patten, Carew, Chandler, Siegel, Hulbert, Bruckner, Bennet, 
Oglesby, Piatt, Driscoll, Smith, London, and Caldwell. 

[From the New York Herald, Thursday, Mar. 8, 1917.] 

Mass of Requiem for M. F. Conry' — Speaker Clark Attends 
Services in St. Stephen's for the Late Representative 

Bishop Patrick J. Hayes, assisted by several priests, yesterday 
in St. Stephen's Church celebrated a solemn mass of requiem for 
Representative Michael F. Conry, who died in Washington last 
Friday. The services were attended by a large assemblage of 
distinguished men, including a delegation from Congress headed 
by Speaker Champ Clark. 

Personal friends who acted as pallbearers were E. D. Dowling, 
Charles Goldstein, P. .1. Haltigan, Andrew J. Sheridan, Michael J. 
Cruise, and Justice J. L. W'alsh. The church was draped in 
mourning. 

[From the New York Sun, Thursday, Mar. 8, 1917.] 

Many Congressmen at Conry Funeral — Speaker Clark Heads 
Delegation — 400 Letter Carriers Also Attend 

Champ Clark headed a delegation of Congressmen who attended 
funeral services for the late Representative Michael F. Conry in 



[26] 



Address of Mr. Hulbert, of New York 

St. Stephen's Roman Catholic Church, in East Twentj'-eighth 
Street, yesterday. The Speaker has attended only one other 
funeral in recent years, but his regard for Mr. Conry was such 
that he felt compelled to come to New York on this occasion. 

With him were 21 other New York Representatives and several 
from other States, as well as several United States Senators and 
many city officers and friends of Mr. Conry. Personal friends, 
acting as pallbearers, were E. D. Dowling, Charles Goldstein, P. J. 
Haltigan, Andrew J. Sheridan, M. J. Cruise, and Justice J. L. 
Walsh, of the city court. 

More than 400 letter carriers, whose fight for better working 
conditions Mr. Conry championed in Washington, entered the 
church when they had finished their early morning deliveries. 
Among others present were Robert Gordon, Sergeant at Arms of 
the House; P. J. Haltigan, reading clerk of the House; John R. 
Voorhis, grand sachem of the Society of Tammany; and most of 
the leaders of Tammany Hall. 

Bishop Patrick J. Hayes, assisted by a number of priests, cele- 
brated a solemn high mass of requiem. Burial was in Calvary 
Cemetery. 

[From the New York Times, Thursday, Mar. 8, 1917.] 

Many Mourn M. F. Conry — Speaker Cl.\rk and Congressional 
Delegation at His Funeral 

Speaker Champ Clark and a delegation from the House of 
Representatives and two Senators attended the funeral services 
here yesterday of Congressman Michael F. Conry, who died in 
Washington on Friday. Bishop Patrick J. Hayes, assisted by a 
number of priests, celebrated a solemn high mass of requiem in 
St. Stephen's Church, East Twenty-eighth Street. The interment 
took place in Calvary Cemetery. 

At the conclusion of the religious part of the services the Rev. 
Father Alexis, a missionary of Hoboken, referred to the career of 
Mr. Conry, to his many acts of charity, and said the late Congress- 
man had died a martyr to duty and to his country. 

Personal and political friends of Mr. Conry filled the church. 
Among them were 400 letter carriers and post-office employees, 
whose welfare had always been a subject of consideration in his 
public work. 

The delegation, headed by the dean of New York Representa- 
tives, John J. Fitzgerald, of Brooklyn, included Congressmen 

[27] 



Memorial Addresses: Representative Conry 

Griffin, Maher, Flynn, Riordan, Loft, F'arley, Dooling, Patten, 
Carey, Chandler, Siegel, Hulbert, Bruckner, Bennet, Oglesby, 
Piatt, Driscoll, Smith, London, and Cakhvell, of New York; Eagan, 
Scully, and Hamill, of New Jersey; Morin, Liebel, and Farr, of 
Pennsylvania; Taggart, Kansas; Gallagher, Illinois; Small, North 
Carolina; Lonergan, Connecticut; and O'Shaunessy, Rhode Island. 
The Senators were Robinson, of Arkansas, and Shafroth, of 
Colorado. 

Mr. CoNRY, who represented the Democratic lifteenth district, 
lived at 141 East Twenty-si.xth Street. 



[28] 



Address of Mr. Eagan, of New Jersey 

Mr. Speaker: Michael F. Conry has answered the final 
roll call. America has lost one of its best citizens; this 
House one of its ablest Members, one of its noblest charac- 
ters; the fifteenth congressional district of New York a 
conscientious, hard-working Representative; his col- 
leagues in this House a steadfast friend; and his sorrow- 
ing widow and children a devoted husband and father. 

Membership in this great body has its responsibilities 
and cares, but it also has its compensations. One of the 
greatest of these is the opportunitj' to have known men 
like Michael F. Conry. Mj' friendship for Mr. Conry be- 
gan the moment I was introduced to him, and it ripened 
as I grew to know more and more of him. The memory 
of the friendship will live in me as long as life lasts. 

Though suffering constant and intense pain as the re- 
sult of an accident while working as a boy in the coal 
mines of Pennsylvania, his disposition was as cheerful as 
his voice was sweet, as his heart was tender and true. In- 
stead of harrowing others with his physical ills he seemed 
to forget them completely, and helped many of us by his 
sunny disposition and his all-pervading good humor to 
forget our imaginary troubles. 

To know Michael F. Conry was indeed to love him. In 
his death I have suffered the loss of one of the best and 
truest friends I have ever had. 



[29] 



Address of Mr. Loft, of New York 

Mr. Speaker: My late colleague and friend, Michael F. 
CoNRY, has answered the final roll call, and it shall be 
my last act as a Member of Congress to pay a fitting though 
brief tribute to his honored memory. 

His was a lovable character, which, after all, is the very 
essence of manhood. He might have been sad, discon- 
solate, and even sullen, and his physical infirmity would 
have successfully plead any human indulgence for his 
fi-ailty; but he disguised pain with a smile, fought nobly 
and bravely under a handicap which would have driven 
a man who did not possess his character to despair, and 
not only found comfort and happiness but spread it 
wherever he went. 

He had served four consecutive terms in the House, and 
had been reelected for a fifth term, which demonstrates 
the regard of his constituents and the esteem in which he 
was held by them. And it was well deserved. He was a 
man of deeds, always ready and anxious to help those who 
sought his service. His attitude in this respect is typical 
of the lines penned by Sam Walter Foss: 

Let me live in nij' house by the side of the road 
And be a friend to man. 

A man who could and did appreciate the consideration 
shown him, he was the most considerate man toward 
otliers it has ever been my privilege and pleasure to asso- 
ciate with. It seems to me as if he began each day with a 
firm determination to adhere to the motto : 

To thine own self be true, 

And it must follow, as the night the day. 

Thou canst not then be false to any man. 

[30] 



Address of Mr. Loft, of New York 



He has lived a life and won a fame among his fellow 
men the knowledge of which should be a consolation to 
his widow and their three beautiful children. 

God bless and comfort them, and may the soul of our 
beloved colleague rest in peace. 



92438°— 17 3 [31] 



Address of Mr. Bennet, of New York 

Mr. Speaker: "We beseech Thee for the soul of Thy 
servant Michael." Gravely and softly the good bishop 
said it, yet as a man asking that for which he had an as- 
sured right. We in the pews who had known Michael F. 
CoNRY knew that this prayer would be granted. Our late 
colleague had lived the life which leads to certain salva- 
tion. 

It had been a solemn and beautiful service. 

The symbolic mass, the rich music, and then the impres- 
sive eulogy by the black-robed Jesuit father. All that he 
said we knew to be true. " It is given, to all men once to 
die," said he. But to him the death of the righteous was 
triumph, not tragedy. We recognized this fidelity of his 
description of Conry as a man who had been true to him- 
self, to his family, to his country, and to his God, and who 
had really shortened his days by attention to the public 
service. 

And for whom was this eulogy? In wliosc honor were 
Senators of the United States and 30 Representatives in 
Congress, headed by their honored Speaker, gathered? 

Were the mitered bishop, the princely monsignor, and 
the reverend clergy gathered to do honor to wealth and 
hereditaiy power? 

Did six personal friends bear on their shoulders one 
who living had enriched them by his largess? 

None of these natural assumptions is true. 

The sweet flowers, tributes of aff"ection from real 
friends, blossomed for a simple Irish lad. 

The life of Michael F. Conry is one of solid satisfaction 
to those who knew him, and a tribute to our country's op- 
portunities. Not 5'et 50, he had risen by his own talent, 

[32] 



Address of Mr. Bennet, of New York 

ability, and exertions from a breaker boy in a coal mine to 
be a leader in the National House of Representatives. He 
had triumphed over grievous physical injuries. 

Years ago an accident in a coal mine had lamed him for 
life. The accident that ended his career as a miner turned 
him to the profession of the law and success on a wider 
field. He had triumphed over a great apparent injustice. 
Nominated for Congress as the representative of his fel- 
low workmen of Scranton against a man of great wealth 
and power, the nominee of both leading parties, he ap- 
parently won, even over such great odds. He was not 
seated in the House. Disappointment neither soured nor 
spoiled him. Leaving the city of Scranton he came to New 
York City and soon was in Congress under circumstances 
which made leadership inevitable and place and service 
secure. His judgment was serene and sound. Whenever 
a question came up which affected New York City, every 
one of us, sooner or later, asked " What does Mike Conry 
think about it?" He was on the most distinguished com- 
mittee of the House — Ways and Means. Happy in his 
beautiful home life with wife and children; surrounded 
by a wealth of friends, both within and without the circle 
of his kinsmen; daily more powerful in his party councils. 

Then disease struck him down. 

All last summer we saw him failing; this winter we 
noted his waning strength. 

And then he was gone. 

In the whole membership of the House he left not a sin- 
gle enemy. He had done his duty, he had fought his fights, 
but he fought fair and left no bitterness. To his family he 
will always be a fond recollection, for he was loving and 
true; to his friends a tender memory, for he was staunch, 
sympathetic, and helpful ; to the Irish people, of whom he 
was proud to be one, a notable example of a true Irish- 
man; to the church of which he was a faithful member, a 

source of justified pride. 

[33] 



Memorial Addresses: Representative Conry 

This was the man for whom the bishop prayed and tlic 
eloquent priest delivered the eulogy of truth, sympathy, 
and power. 

This was the man whom statesmen honored and whom 
friends mourned. 

He had lived and loved, toiled and served; had seen 
good fortune and bad; had looked the great of the earth 
in the face unafraid, and had been proudly of the plain 
people. So they who honored him were wise, and they 
who mourned him were well advised. For he, thus hon- 
ored and thus mourned, had been a greater than prince 
or potentate. He had lived and died wholly and com- 
pletely a true, loyal, and honest man. 



[34] 



Address of Mr. Siegel, of New York 

Mr. Speaker: In the death of Representative Michael F. 
CoNRY the city of New York has lost a valuable public 
servant, and the Nation at large will miss one who gave 
to it the best that was in him. 

Although only 46 years of age, in the prime of life, and 
with a future most promising, he exercised and wielded a 
power far greater than most men acknowledged during 
his lifetime. Few men from the city of New York in Con- 
gress have given deeper and more thorough consideration 
to the important questions of the day; and, on account of 
his physical condition, he spent the major part of his time 
in research work. 

It was due to his personal and untiring efforts that the 
Philippine bill, which would have brought shame to the 
cheeks of the American people in years to come, was 
beaten. 

Michael F. Conry first saw the light of day at Shenan- 
doah, Pa., on April 2, 1870. After following the vocation 
of school-teacher for seven years, he graduated from the 
University of Michigan in 1896. He then commenced the 
practice of law as an assistant corporation counsel in the 
city of New York, and the people of New York City, recog- 
nizing his ability, made him a Member of the Sixty-first, 
Sixty-second, Sixty-third, and Sixty-fourth Congresses, 
and then reelected him to the Sixty-fifth Congi'ess. 

He was one of the best read men in the House, could tell 
and always enjoyed a story about himself, and had a wit 
and humor about him that endeared him to all who came 
in contact with him. He loved men for what they repre- 
sented from the point of culture and education. He 
neither had nor worshiped wealth. He was patriotic in 

[35] 



Memorial Addresses: Representative Conry 

the fullest sense of the term. He cherished America, the 
same as an infant loves its mother. He exemplified true 
home life in every way. He was devoted to his wife and 
children, and in their company he found rest and pleasure. 
If the accumulation of wealth constitutes success, then 
he was a failure. But to my mind, Mr. Speaker, he was 
truly successful, both as a public and patriotic servant 
and also as a loving father and devoted husband. He was 
a living exemplar of the man described in the poem " Suc- 
cess," by Henry Victor Morgan: 

SUCCESS 

I hold that man alone succeeds 

Whose life is crowned by noble deeds. 

Who cares not for the world's applause 

But scorns vain custom's outgrown laws; 

Who feels not dwarfed by nature's show. 

But deep within himself doth know 

That conscious man is greater far 

Than ocean, land, or distant star; 

Who does not count his wealth Ijy gold, 

His worth by office he may hold, 

But feels himself, as man alone, 

As good as king upon a throne; 

Who, battling 'gainst each seeming wrong. 

Can meet disaster with a song, 

Feel sure of victory in defeat. 

And rise refreshed the foe to meet; 

Who only lives the world to bless. 

Can never fail — he is success. 



[36] 



Address of Mr. Clark, of Missouri 

Mr. Speaker : " It is appointed unto men once to die and 
after that the judgment." The rule is universal, inexor- 
able. Our good, kind-hearted, industrious, able, and 
patriotic friend and fellow servant, Michael F. Conry, 
was no exception. Death took him while he was yet a 
young man, and he is sincerely mourned by all who knew 
him. He was a peculiarly lovable man. He was capable, 
level headed, and prompt in the discharge of duty. He 
was a rising man in the House. 

I was first attracted to him by hearing him sing old-time 
songs and hymns. He was blessed with a highly musical 
voice of much beauty and pathos. 

I began calling him to the chair when the House was in 
paciOc frame of mind and he presided with grace, dignity, 
and fairness. I encouraged him to study parliamentary 
law, which he did successfully. One day I asked him if 
he thought he could pilot one of the great appropriation 
bills through the Committee of the Whole House, and 
he replied that he thought he could if I would risk him— 
which I did. He performed that onerous and difficult 
task to the satisfaction of all. By practice, study, and 
observation he became a good presiding officer. 

He was not a frequent or prolix speaker. His style was 
clear, harmonious, forceful. He was the soul of courtesy, 
true as steel, firm as a rock. No man ever did him a kind- 
ness that he did not repay. His death is a loss to his State 
and to the Republic — inexpressibly sad to his multitude of 
friends. 



[37] 



Address of Mr. Griffin, of Nf.w York 

Thursday. March 8, 1917. 

Mr. Speaker: Under the permission granted by the 
House to extend my remarks I insert in the Record an 
article appearing in the Washington Times of March 3, 
1917, written by Mr. Theodore Tiller, one of the brainy 
newspaper correspondents who daily communicate to the 
world the doings of this great legislative body. He, like 
his colleagues in the press gallery, see men come and go 
in public life, and recognize immediately sterling qualities 
of heart and mind. 

His eloquent article is a sincere tribute to the late Hon. 
Michael F. Conry, Member of Congress from the fifteenth 
New York district, the most beloved Member of the Sixty- 
fourth Congress, an able legislator, a brilliant member of 
the Ways and Means Committee. 

The article is as follows : 

[From the Washington Times, Mar. 3, 1917.] 

If House Does Sing, 'twill Be a Tribvte — " Mike " Conby, 
Genial, Sweet-Yoiced Congressman, Dies as Session Ends — 
Led in " Good-by " Songs — Members Recess in Midst of Tasks 
When News of Death is Told 

Probably there'll be a song or two in the House of Representa- 
tives late to-night or in the early morning hours as this session 
passes into history. In the lower body there is generally a let- 
down of business just before the gavel falls, and, somehow, the 
fellows begin to hum an old-fashioned tune, the chorus swells, 
and soon half the membership is singing. 

It is the mellowing influence of the time for good-bys, the relief 
from overwork, an outcropping of the sentimental among men 
who are soon to break pleasant associations, and who at heart 
are still just boys. 

But if they sing to-night there will be a missing voice— and that 
is why this story is written. " Mike " Conry — genial, whole- 

[38] 



Address of Mr. Griffin, of Nt:w York 

souled, lovable " Mikk " Conry — is dead, or has " crossed over," 
as Uncle Joe Cannon, who dislikes the word " death," would say 
if he were writing a story about the passing of a colleague. 

VOICE CLKAR, HKART TENDER 

In former years Congressman Conry has been there to sing as 
the last hours of Congress slipped by. He had a voice as clear as 
a bell and a heart as tender as a child's. He was lame — was 
" Mike " Conry — but he'd limp toward the well of the House and 
soon you'd hear him above the rest as his tenor would blend in 
harmony with other Members who had good voices and sang with 
feeling under the thrill of good-by scenes. 

"Auld Lang Syne," "Tenting To-night," "Old Black Joe," 
" Suwanee River " — the old favorites, with sometimes a verse of 
" Home, Sweet Home " — were among the songs they sang while 
Conry's voice keyed true to every note. 

Or perhaps they'd sing an Irish ballad — something that carried 
one back to the memories of green hills and clear lakes, to blue- 
eyed lassies, to cottages where old-fashioned mothers crooned the 
lullabies that have always put little children to sleep, and to a 
little isle whose national heart has been as big as the great 
out-of-doors. 

" MIKE " CONRY STIRRED 

And then, too, " Mike " Conry's voice was heard above the rest, 
but it had a sort of quaver in it and his eyes had that far-away 
look that conies when one's feelings are deeply stirred. 

Maybe the Members of the House will not get a chance to sing 
at all before the adjournment comes sine die. But if Conry were 
here he'd want them to, and now he is dead and the body is on the 
way to his New York home " Mike " Conry would not have them 
refrain from song because of that. 

This story might have been told in a few words — but the writer 
felt it was worth a bit more than that. In these final hours of an 
epochal session of the National Legislature it can not be amiss to 
turn a moment from practical things and record that sentiment 
still exists, that there is not a Member of the House who doesn't 
miss MicH.\EL Conry to-day, and that if the songs of yesterday are 
sung again some of his colleagues will seem to hear once more the 
lead of Conry, of New York. 



[39] 



Memorial Addresses: Representative Conry 

HOUSE SHOWS SPIRIT 

Persons who have never seen the end of a session in the House 
of Representatives probably can not appreciate what adjournment 
means to the Members of the lower body. In the Senate there is 
always dignity, real or assumed. The farewells are grave, matter 
of fact, although doubtless sincere. In the House the scenes are 
entirely different. 

House Members somehow are closer in their friendships. The 
complexion of the lower Chamber is constantly changing. Men 
come and go every two years. TIic leader of to-day may be the 
vanquished of to-morrow. But during his term he has formed 
friendships that are as true as steel and associations that are hard 
to break. 

Final adjournment in the House is much like the graduation day 
in a high school or a college. The young fellows assemble in class 
for the last time. Each one knows that never will they all meet 
together again. New faces are sure to appear and old faces are 
certain to be missed. It is a breaking of the ties that bind. 

So Vvfith the House of Representatives, with its membership that 
comes " close from the soul of a great people." The end of busi- 
ness comes, the tension is relaxed, Members are saying good-by — 
perhaps for a day, perhaps forever; and then away over in a 
corner a song is begun, a hush fulls over the crowded galleries, 
the membership joins in, the Speaker withholds the gavel, there 
is no word of reproof, and moisture dims the eyes of those who 
appreciate the note of pathos in it all. 

Thus they have sung in the past and thus they will sing in the 
future. But " Mike " Conry's voice will never lead them again. 

NEWS OF DEATH COMES 

" Mike " Conry, beloved of every Member of the House, died 
last night at Providence Hospital. The end came quicklj', unex- 
pectedly. 

The House stood in recess for one hour when the death was 
announced by Congressman Fitzgerald, dean of the New York 
delegation. The crush of legislation prevented a longer recess, 
but the tribute of the House was none the less sincere. Tears 
stood in the eyes of Mr. Fitzgerald as he told his colleagues that 
Michael Conry had answered the final roll call. 

Should they sing as the sands of the Sixty-fourth Congress run 
low, there'll be a tribute to Conry in that, and there'll be proof 
once more of the fact that the makers of national law have in 
them the touch of sentiment that makes us all alike. 

[40] 



Proceedings in the Senate 



Friday, March 2, 1917. 

A message from the House of Representatives by D. K. 
Hempstead, its enrolling clerk, communicated to the 
Senate the intelligence of the death of Hon. Michael F. 
CoNRY, late a Representative from the State of New Yoi-k, 
and transmitted resolutions of the House thereon. 

The President pro tempore. The Chair lays before the 
Senate resolutions of the House of Representatives, which 
will be read. 

The Secretary read the resolutions, as follows: 

In the House of Representatives of the United States. 

March 2, 1917. 

Resolved, That the House has heard with profound sorrow of 
the death of the Hon. Michael F. Conry, a Representative from 
the State of New York. 

Resolved, That a committee of Members of the House, with such 
Members of the Senate as may be joined, be appointed to attend 
the funeral. 

Resolved, That the Sergeant at Arms of the House be authorized 
and directed to take such steps as may be necessary for carrying 
out the provisions of tliese resolutions, and that the necessary 
expenses in connection therewith be paid out of the contingent 
fund of the House. 

Resolved, That the Clerk communicate these resolutions to the 
Senate and transmit a copy thereof to the family of the deceased. 

Resolved, That as a further mark of respect this House do now 
stand in recess until 8 o'clock post meridian. 

Mr. Hitchcock. Mr. President, the Senate having been 
informed of the death of Representative Conry, of New 

[41] 



Memorial Addresses : Representative Conry 

York, I move that, out of respect to his memory, the Senate 
take a recess until 10 o'clock in the morning. 

The motion was unanimously agreed to; and (at 12 
o'clock and 40 minutes a. m., Saturday, Mar. 3, 1917) the 
Senate took a recess until 10 o'clock a. m. 



[42] 



